Celebrating Diversity at Jean Vanier

On November 29th, Jean Vanier Catholic High School, Collingwood hosted its first ever Multicultural Night to celebrate the cultural diversity of the school and the community.

The event was organized and hosted by Ms. Bollozos and Ms. Knights; people of all ages and backgrounds came to Jean Vanier to represent their unique cultures, and to enjoy the music, stories, delicious cuisine, and talented performances from the many cultural groups that make up our school community. The Philippines, Syria, Poland, Denmark, Italy, Malta, France and Canada were among the many countries represented on the night. Members of our school community brought in plenty of good food for guests to enjoy; including koftas, pastries, perogies, focaccia, pastizzi, and crepes.

Jean Vanier’s music teacher, Mr. Frackowiak, kicked off the night with various music pieces, followed by some beautiful Italian singing and musical demonstrations by students from Collingwood’s St. Mary's Catholic elementary school. Two members of the Georgian Triangle Karate Club demonstrated some kata in honour of Japan, and demonstrations of Filipino stick dancing captivated the crowd with many guests attempting to join in the dance, being careful to keep their feet from becoming caught in the poles.

Jean Vanier Catholic High School’s first Multicultural Night brought different traditions, cultures, and talents together in celebration of cultural diversity. All of these cultures and traditions are what make our school community such an incredible place, and cultural celebrations like this one - where we celebrate our differences, as well as our similarities - help to unite and educate us as a school and as a community.